Golden Valley Crusaders calling it a day

After 43 years of traveling countless miles to sing God’s praises the Golden Valley Crusaders, one of our region’s top Bluegrass Gospel groups, are “calling it a day.”

Members of the National Bluegrass Gospel Music Association and the North Carolina and South Carolina Bluegrass Association, they were named Carolinas’ Bluegrass Gospel group of the year in 2009. They’ve had more than 50 different members during their tenure, but the last five years the group primarily consisted of Butch Cook, Gary Heavner, David Heavner, Clint Houser and George Giddens. Running sound and sales for the past 15 years, Christy Heavner .

“What joy we’ve had opening our home place, Ottis Cook Memorial Music Park, to many wonderful gospel music fans and groups,” said Butch Cook. “We thank all the churches, supporters, and others who have welcomed us and treated us so well for so long. And, we cannot forget our loving, faithful families.”

The Crusaders sing 6 p.m. Saturday, First Broad Baptist, Hwy 226 N, Golden Valley. Former members are invited and groups who attend can sing. The “love offering” goes toward the medical expenses of Tracy Stuffle, bass singer for the Perrys. Call 704-825-5224 or 828-289-3993.

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